Timor-Leste: Authorities impose COVID-19-related entry and exit restrictions in parts of Oecusse-Ambeno Special Adminstrative Region through Aug. 18 /update 36

Event

Officials have imposed an entry and exit ban in parts of the Oecusse-Ambeno Special Administrative Region, including Naimeco in Pante Macassar and Bobometo in Oesilo through Aug. 18 due to COVID-19 concerns. An entry and exit ban also remains in place in Dili and Ermera through at least Aug. 12. Exemptions from the restrictions are possible for safety, public health, or humanitarian reasons. Individuals who have received two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine and accompanying children under the age of six are also exempt from the rules. Authorities may extend or reintroduce the measures in some localities at short notice, depending on changes in COVID-19 activity.

A nationwide state of emergency is in effect through 23:59 Aug. 30. Nonessential businesses remain suspended nationwide. Essential businesses, such as food establishments, medical services, banks, and fuel stations, may continue operating with safe-distancing protocols in place. Authorities continue to require people to wear facemasks, frequently sanitize their hands, and maintain a 1-meter (3-feet) distance from others when in public. Public transport can operate with protocols; however, officials ban people who show COVID-19 symptoms from using public transport, except for medical emergencies.

Travel Restrictions
Authorities continue to suspend entry for citizens and foreigners. Diplomatic personnel, members of international organizations and bilateral cooperation agencies, petroleum sector workers, and medical emergencies are exempt. Authorities require permitted travelers to present a negative COVID-19 test result taken within five days of departure and quarantine for 14 days in government facilities or their private residences, subject to prior approval from the Ministry of Health. Fully vaccinated individuals may quarantine for five days. Travelers must receive a negative COVID-19 test result before leaving quarantine.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments. Plan for queues and delays at available shopping centers. Plan for possible ground shipping and travel delays; seek alternative routes and shipping methods for time-sensitive cargo.

Resources

Timor-Leste Government Website
World Health Organization (WHO)